Things to do in the Blue Mountains

Whether you're visiting for a quiet couples' retreat or an adventurous family weekend, there's always something happening in and around Katoomba. From scenic lookouts and nature walks to food festivals and live performances, the Blue Mountains offers unforgettable experiences all year round.

Staying at Metropole Katoomba means you're perfectly placed to explore it all, just steps from the train station and minutes from major attractions like Scenic World, the Three Sisters, and Echo Point Lookout.

Our team loves to share local recommendations, just ask at reception for the latest events, secret picnic spots, and more.

An unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Blue Mountains.

Take a thrilling ride on the world’s steepest railway, wander across the spectacular skyway, or stroll hand-in-hand along the elevated rainforest walkway. Perfect for a fun family day out or a romantic escape into nature.

Visit Scenic World’s Website.

Scenic World

For Couples:
Romantic Things to Do

Planning a romantic getaway in the Blue Mountains? Here are some of the region’s most memorable experiences for two:

  • Sunset at Echo Point: Watch the light change over the Three Sisters.

  • Dine by candlelight at local restaurants and wine bars.

  • Couples bushwalks to secluded waterfalls like Leura Cascades.

  • Spa treatments and wellness retreats nearby.

  • Heritage train rides for a nostalgic journey through mountain scenery.

After a day of exploring, return to the quiet charm of your heritage hotel in Katoomba.

For Families:
Kid-Friendly Adventures

Looking for family accommodation in the Blue Mountains? There’s no shortage of fun, outdoor, and educational things to do with kids:

  • Scenic World: Ride the Scenic Railway and Skyway.

  • Wentworth Falls and Leura Cascades: Easy walks with stunning views.

  • Picnic spots at Gordon Falls Reserve or Blackheath’s Memorial Park.

  • Meet native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park.

  • Jenolan Caves Tours: Fascinating underground adventures.

Book a spacious family room and make Metropole your home base.

Blue Mountains Activities:
Walks, Cafés & More

From sunrise hikes to cosy bookshops and mountain markets, here are the top things to do in Katoomba and beyond:

  • Bushwalking trails for all levels

  • Art galleries, local studios, and antique shops

  • Blue Mountains Cultural Centre

  • Lookouts: Govetts Leap, Sublime Point, Cahill's Lookout

  • Cafés and bakeries serving local produce and homemade treats

Check with reception for maps, recommendations, and walking itineraries.

Cosy Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Katoomba

Rainy days in the Blue Mountains? That’s your cue to slow down and soak up the cosy charm of Katoomba. Whether you're wrapped in a blanket beside the fire at Metropole or out exploring hidden local gems, there’s plenty to enjoy, no umbrella required.

Stay in and get snug:

Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all. Sink into a lounge chair by our crackling fireplace with a book, a glass of wine, or a board game and just unwind. It’s the kind of peace you rarely find in everyday life.

Explore Katoomba’s indoor treasures:

If you’re up for an easy adventure, Katoomba has plenty of indoor attractions just minutes from your room:

  • Bygone Beautys Teapot Museum & Tearooms: Step into an elegant world of vintage teapots and enjoy a decadent high tea on crisp white linen. It’s as charming as it is delicious. Bygone Beautys

  • Blue Mountains Cultural Centre: Discover local art, history and ever-changing exhibitions, all with panoramic views from the viewing platform.

  • The Edge Cinema: Perfect for a laid-back afternoon with popcorn and a blockbuster or indie gem.

  • Katoomba’s quirky shops and cafés: Browse the unique local stores or settle into a cosy café for hot chocolate and cake. Rain only makes it more magical.

Annual Festivals

Summer

  • Leura Shakespeare Festival – January

  • Wines of the West Festival – January

  • Highlands Steam & Vintage Fair – February

  • Lithgow Flash Gift Carnival – February

  • Ukelele Festival – February

Autumn

  • Equinox Feast Festival

  • Folk, Roots & Blues Music Festival – March

  • Iron Fest – April

  • The Pudding Day – April

  • Sculpture at Scenic World – April–May

Winter

  • Winter Magic Festival – June

  • Yule Fest – July (Christmas in July across the mountains)

Spring

  • Concerts in the Caves – September

  • Bicentenary Festival of Walking – October

  • Leura Gardens Festival – October

  • Blue Mountains Film Festival – October

  • Blackheath Rhododendron Festival – October–November